James Maurice Claxton, Jr., 87, of Mishawaka, passed away Saturday, October 27, 2012 in Arborwood Living Center, Granger. Jim was born on February 27, 1925, the son of the late James and Isidora (White) Claxton. On January 13, 1951, he married Esther I. Light. The enjoyed 51 years of marriage before her passing on February 25, 2008.

He is survived by two children, James A. Claxton of South Bend and Lori A. (Tim) Young of Mishawaka; three granddaughters, Sheila Annis, Dena (Kevin) Hutchinson and Jodi Young; 11 great grandchildren and eight great great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Patricia Stickley of South Bend.

Jim graduated from South Bend Central High School, class of 1943. He went on to serve his country in the U. S. Navy before his honorable discharge in 1946. He worked for Dodge Manufacturing before his retirement in 1982, he was a member of the US Steelworkers Local 1191 and a life time member of the VFW Post 360.

Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2012 in Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Highway, Osceola. Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 pm, Thursday, November 1, 2012 in the funeral home.

The family prefers memorial to be made to Harbor Light Hospice, 1608 East Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545